Violence

4 years ago

27 Die in Sri Lanka Prison Riot

Ishara S. Kodikara / AFP / Getty Images

At least 27 people were killed and 59 injured overnight when Sri Lanka's biggest prison erupted in violence. The riot began when officers searched the prison for drugs and illegal cellphones. Prisoners began attacking the police with rocks and eventually with weapons stolen from the prison's armory. The Army was eventually brought in to bring the 4,500-inmate prison under control.